MP Sir Stephen Timms visits Brampton Manor DofE students

Students from Brampton Manor Academy in East Ham shared their experiences with Sir Stephen Timms MP, Minister for Social Security and Disabled People, during a special visit on May 15, highlighting the impact of the programme on their personal growth and community involvement.

The students described how the DofE has shaped their character, boosted their confidence and contributed to their neighbourhoods through volunteering.

The visit was an opportunity for the students to share stories from their recent expeditions in Epping Forest and discuss how the programme has influenced their personal development.

Students and DofE participants Brampton Manor (Image: DofE)

MP Sir Stephen said: "Programmes like The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award allow young people to explore their passions, build confidence and develop the skills they need for life and work.

"I have been delighted to see the Award in action here at Brampton Manor Academy, and it is amazing that 105 young people started their award last year. Through their volunteering and skills sections, young people doing their DofE are making a big difference to their local community here in East Ham, which is a source of pride and inspiration to me."

Taeo, 14, who is doing their Bronze DofE at Brampton Manor Academy, said: "Through the DofE programme, I have done activities such as piano playing, parkour and litter picking.

"I have become more confident in my physical and mental skills, as well as becoming more conscious about the world, my own health and the achievements of others. Overall, I feel it’s an enriching and enlightening experience that has helped me explore the outdoors, improve a range of skills and gain traits that have developed my character.

"I believe that anyone could complete it if they set their mind to it, as it is very rewarding for your life."

Brampton Manor Academy has been a licensed DofE organisation for more than eight years and has supported over 392 young people in starting the award in the past four years. In the last year alone, students have contributed 3,354 hours of voluntary service, with an estimated social value of over £25,323.

Patrick Hemingway, DofE co-ordinator at Brampton Manor Academy, said: "DofE is really important for the students as it gives them an opportunity to develop different skills.

"It’s something out of the ordinary - putting them into an environment they haven’t experienced before and seeing how they can adapt. They find it challenging at times, but that’s what we want for them so they can progress, and of course, they are really enjoying it."

Nationally, 1.6 million young people in the UK began their DofE Award between April 2021 and March 2026, contributing 21 million hours of volunteering.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award aims to support more than two million young people in developing life and work skills by 2031, with targeted efforts to reach those in the most disadvantaged areas and young people with additional needs.